Using an exfoliating body scrub can be a great way to loosen and remove dead skin, and even alleviate some mild body acne. There are lots of scrubs on the market. You should choose one that you feel confident in, and one that is compatible with your skin type. Most scrubs come with basic instructions on the back, but there are a few additional guidelines to follow for success.

Use your hands or a soft cloth.

When you're using an abrasive body scrub, you don't want or need to also use an abrasive washcloth. Doing so may be a bit too harsh on your skin; you'll have too much scrubbing power! Instead, apply the scrub either with your hand or with a soft cloth. You can also use a body sponge if you have one that is soft and non-abrasive. As you apply the body scrub, do so in circular motions. This should give you the best exfoliating power without being too harsh. You want to apply pressure to the cloth or body sponge, but not so much pressure that it's painful.

Apply the scrub after spending some time in a warm shower.

Don't jump in the shower and apply the scrub immediately. Instead, give your skin a little time to warm up under the water first. Letting the warm water flow over your skin softens it a bit so that the scrub can more effectively remove dead skin. You're also less likely to get unwanted abrasions from the scrub when your skin is warm and supple. 

Only use the scrub once or twice a week.

Using a body scrub should not be a part of your daily routine. It should be something you do about once a week, or maybe twice a week if you have a lot of rough, dead skin. Over-exfoliating can make your skin too sensitive and may even contribute to breakouts.

Rinse well.

Most body scrubs are pretty thick, and they are designed to really cling to the skin so they can get the job done. As such, a quick rinse won't always fully remove them. You want to stand under the water for a little longer and use your hands to gently massage your skin, making sure all of the scrub has been removed.

With the tips above, you can get the full benefits out of using a body scrub. Check the label for any more specific instructions. To learn more information, reach out to a company such as Salt Soothers.